Amy Hunt challenges Sydney Sweeney advert’s portrayal of women in sport
The British sprinter used a season’s-best performance in Budapest to argue that women’s sporting achievements should not be reduced to appearance.
British sprinter Amy Hunt has criticised a sports gambling advert starring actress Sydney Sweeney, saying it fails to reflect the strength, effort and achievements of women in sport.
Speaking to BBC Sport after finishing fourth in the 200m final at the Ultimate Championship in Budapest, Hunt ran a season’s best 22.10 seconds before addressing the advert’s portrayal of women athletes.
“Sydney Sweeney, this is what women in sport look like,” Hunt said. Referring to winner Melissa Jefferson-Wooden’s 21.47-second run, described by BBC Sport as the fourth-fastest time over the distance, Hunt highlighted the muscles, hard work and sacrifice behind elite performance.
The advert, which features Sweeney covering parts of her body with sporting equipment, has drawn criticism from female athletes who say it sexualises women in sport and places emphasis on appearance rather than achievement.
Hunt is among athletes from several sports who have shared training and competition footage in response. American gymnast Gracie Kramer helped start the trend, while athletes including Ariarne Titmus, Sophie Capewell, Lisa Neumann, Ellie Boatman and Tilly Kearns have also spoken about their sporting experiences.
